Moose Researchers Request Hunters Help

In order to better understand the province's moose populations, researchers at Trent University and the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (O.F.A.H.), are asking for the assistance of Ontario hunters.

Trent University is working with the Ministry of Natural Resources and the O.F.A.H. on a comprehensive three-year study of the factors that affect the province's moose population in its southern range. The larger study is investigating the role of predators, parasites, habitat, and possibly climate change on moose health and productivity.

In support of the study, the O.F.A.H. is asking successful moose hunters to submit small samples of fresh or frozen moose meat to researchers.

The tissue samples collected will help biologists determine historic interactions between moose populations. "We believe that some areas serve as 'sources' for moose emigration into other areas," explains Trent researcher Glynis Price. "This will help us determine how important an effect that might be in southern Ontario herds and throughout the entire Ontario moose range."

Ed Reid, O.F.A.H. Wildlife Biologist suggested that by providing researchers with small samples of moose meat from various areas of the province, that hunters can help biologists better understand the movement of moose across the landscape. "All that is required is a thumb-nail sized sample of moose-meat and some basic information about where it was harvested," noted Reid.

"With the help of moose hunters from across Ontario, we hope to expand the scope of the genetic aspect of our study to the entire provincial herd," explains Trent professor and lead researcher, Dr. Dennis Murray.

Samples can be submitted any time from the beginning of the moose season (Oct 15 to Oct 20 in the Parry Sound/Muskoka/Algonquin area) into January of 2008. The sampling process is fast and easy, and can be done as the moose meat is being prepared for cooking.

Interested moose hunters are asked to contact Glynis Price MSc at Trent University to request a sample kit at 705-748-1011 ext 7437, or by email at glynisprice@trentu.ca.The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (O.F.A.H.) is the largest non-profit conservation based organization in Ontario, with over 80,000 members and 655 member clubs across the province.